Yankees' Michael Pineda must put it together now

TAMPA, Fla. – One of these years, Michael Pineda’s performance might reflect his unquestionable talent level.

And both Pineda and the Yankees really hope it happens this year.

Given the thin nature of the Yanks’ rotation, the organization needs Pineda to finally fulfill the promise of being a frontline starter. And Pineda is entering his free-agent walk season, with millions of dollars shinging on his 2017 season.

“Every year when I’m coming to spring training, I’m coming early, I’m working hard (to) be ready for the season and doing everything I (need),’’ said Pineda, who is putting an emphasis on finishing batters with two strikes and finishing innings with two outs – areas in which he struggled mightily in 2016.

“It’s hard to look at Michael’s numbers and understand how he was 6-12 with the ERA he had (4.82 in 2016) when you look at the strikeouts and the command that he has,’’ Girardi said. “We scratch our heads sometimes with Michael.’’

As CC Sabathia said earlier this week, “I always come into spring training saying this is the year he’s going to win the Cy Young. He just has so much talent, he just needs to put everything together. But he’s right there.’’

Is Pineda motivated or pressured by a contract drive in 2017?

“I don’t put that pressure on my (mind),’’ Pineda said. “(My) only pressure is I want to give an opportunity for my team to win every five days. And when the season is over and you look at your numbers, you feel good. And you’re proud of yourself.’’